Creamy Instant Pot Cauliflower Mash

Welcome to my cozy kitchen! Today, we’re turning a humble vegetable into a side dish so silky and satisfying that it might just steal the spotlight from the main course. If mashed potatoes and cauliflower had a love child, this would be it. Thanks to the Instant Pot, we’re getting all the creaminess without the extra effort—because who has time for stovetop hovering these days?

If you’re craving comfort food with a healthy twist, this Instant Pot Cauliflower Mash is your new best friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s quick and easy, ready in just 20 minutes.
• A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes with all the flavor.
• Budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
• The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting—less cleanup, more time to relax!

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials:

• Cauliflower florets: You can use fresh or frozen, but fresh gives that extra creamy texture.
• Chicken stock or vegetable broth: Adds depth of flavor. Water works in a pinch too.
• Butter: For richness—swap with vegan butter if needed.
• Garlic cloves: Because garlic makes everything better.
• Heavy cream or sour cream: A splash of creaminess. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream is a great alternative.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that balance the flavors perfectly.

Pro Tips:

• Pick a firm, bright white cauliflower head. Avoid ones with brown spots or a strong sulfur smell—fresh is key here!
• Don’t skip the broth—it’s the secret to a mash that’s flavorful, not bland.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by prepping your cauliflower. Chop it into even-sized florets so they cook evenly.
2. Add the cauliflower, garlic cloves, and broth to the Instant Pot. No need to overdo it on the liquid—the steam will cook the cauliflower perfectly.
3. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) for 5 minutes. Yes, just five minutes!
4. Once cooking is done, perform a quick release of the steam. Careful, it’s hot!
5. Drain any excess broth (save it for soups or gravies if you like) and transfer the cauliflower and garlic to a mixing bowl.
6. Add your butter, cream, salt, and pepper, and blend it all up with an immersion blender. If you don’t have one, a food processor or a good old potato masher works too. Blend until smooth and dreamy.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You’re looking for a balance of savory, creamy goodness.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Want a firmer mash? Drain all the liquid thoroughly before blending—no one wants a watery mash!
• If you’re a garlic lover, roast the garlic beforehand for an even deeper flavor.
• For a cheesy twist, fold in some grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar before serving.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• For an herby twist, stir in some chopped chives or parsley right at the end.
• Sneak in some extra veggies! Steam a few pieces of broccoli or carrot along with the cauliflower and blend them together.
• This cauliflower mash pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a comforting bowl of beef stew.
• Make it extra decadent—top with crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of truffle oil, or even caramelized onions.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store your mash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up.

Can I freeze cauliflower mash?

Yes, you can! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it slowly to avoid a grainy texture.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

No problem! Steam the cauliflower in a pot on the stove until tender, and then follow the same blending steps. It’ll take a bit longer, but it’ll still be delicious.

Printable Recipe

I can’t wait for you to try this cozy and oh-so-creamy cauliflower mash! If you make it, let me know how it turned out by leaving a comment below or tagging your creations with #TheKitchensAid. Your kitchen success is my favorite thing to see!